Messages From the Middle

Book Club: Three books I highly recommend

One the podcast this week I tried something different. I read/listen to a lot of books! I love to read ♥️. This week I highlighted three books I read recently that taught me something new, gave me a new perspective and had an impact on my mental health knowledge and understanding. 
The three books I discuss are: The Women by Kristen Hannah. What My Bones Know by Stephanie Foo and Unbroken: The Trauma Response Is Never Wrong by Dr. MaryCatherine McDonald. Give this episode a listen to learn about these books and add them to your reading list. 
contact me: wendy@messagesfromthemiddle
instagram: @childsongbird
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No One Is Alone: Finding the people to help you heal

Welcome to "Messages from the Middle," where we explore the intricate journey of healing and growth. I delve into the profound realization that while we are the architects of our own healing, we don't need to walk the path solo. This week I share a few ideas of the various companions that can accompany us on our own road to healing – from compassionate coaches and empathetic therapists to steadfast friends and wise mentors.
Today, I share my personal journey, unveiling the steps I took to seek support and initiate my healing process. Tune in as we navigate the terrain of self-discovery and resilience together, reminding ourselves that amidst life's challenges, we are never truly alone.
contact me: wendy@messagesfromthemiddle.com
instagram: @childsonggbird
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Outside In: The Integral Link Between Physical Health and Mental Well-being

Today on the podcast where we explore the intricate dance between physical and mental health, illuminating the profound connection that shapes our well-being. Join me, as we delve into the ways our bodies and minds intertwine to create a life of vitality
Get ready to embark on a journey towards holistic well-being with me! On this podcast, I'll be dishing out practical tips and strategies you can implement today to elevate your physical health game. From simple lifestyle adjustments to fun fitness hacks, we'll explore ways to kickstart your journey to feeling your best self.
But here's the twist: it's not just about reps and veggies, it's about embracing the power of self-love and compassion along the way. Because let's be real, true wellness goes beyond the scale. We'll delve into how cultivating kindness towards yourself can be a game-changer, especially during those challenging times when illness throws a curveball. So, get ready to lace up your sneakers and wrap yourself in a blanket of self-care, because together, we'll navigate the ups and downs of the mind-body connection with grace and resilience.
contact me: Wendy@messagesfromthemiddle.com
instagram: @childsongbird
 

All You Need Is Agape: how love can transform you mental health

In this episode of Messages from the Middle, delve into the multifaceted realm of love as we explore its various forms, as classified by ancient Greek philosophy. Beyond mere affection, understanding the nuanced distinctions between these types of love can profoundly impact the dynamics of our relationships and enhance our overall well-being. By recognizing and embracing the diversity of love, we gain insight into how to foster deeper connections with ourselves and others, cultivating a sense of unconditional love that transcends boundaries.
Join us as we navigate the intricacies of love's many dimensions, shedding light on its profound significance in our lives. Discover how incorporating these diverse expressions of love can enrich your interpersonal connections, fostering greater empathy, compassion, and fulfillment. Through thoughtful exploration and reflection, empower yourself to embrace love in all its forms, fostering a sense of harmony and wholeness within yourself and within your relationships.
contact me:
email: wendy@messagesfromthemiddle.com
Instagram: @childsongbird

BONUS: The Perilous Journey: Mental health and climbing a mountain

BONUS: It was exactly one year ago today that my husband and I summited Mt. Kilimanjaro. To mark the occasion I am reposting one of my most popular episodes. 
In this episode I share my experience on summit night hiking Mt. Kilimanjaro and the insights I gained about the parallels of a serious journey and mental health. I share the things that helped me get to the summit and how I have used similar tools in my mental health journey.
I hope this episodes offers you some guidance on your own mental health journey, or as you support someone you love on their road of trials. 
 

Sneaky Ugly Thoughts

Uncover the hidden saboteurs of your progress and let your true potential shine! Join me on 'Sneaky Ugly Thoughts,' where we explore those deceiving thoughts that hold us back from creating lasting change. Get ready to hear the thoughts that you think are helping you but they are actually keeping you stuck. stick with me for practical tips, a to break free from these sneaky culprits. Let's unleash your untapped power together!
contact me
email. wendy@messagesfromthemiddle.com
instagram: @childsongbird

Learning to love the life you are living

In this episode of Messages From the Middle, I share the breakthrough moment I had when I declared, "I don't need a medication change, I need a life change!" IN that moment I knew that I needed to take steps to change and love the life I am in right now.  In this episode I delve into the transformative power of decluttering for enhanced mental health. Discover the profound impact of expressing gratitude and cultivating meaningful connections with the people around you. Gain insights into the steps I took to create a compelling vision and purpose statement, paving the way for positive change.
Tune in for a journey of self-discovery, inspiration, and practical tips to embrace and love the life you lead. It's time to unlock the potential within and craft a life filled with purpose and joy. Let's embark on this empowering adventure together!
email: wendy@messagesfromthemiddle.com
Instagram: @childsongbird

Tick, Tick, Boom:Your nervous system and mental health

In this episode of Messages From the Middle I embark on an exploration of the human nervous system. I will share the  delicate dance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic branches. This week I will get a little science as I journey, talk about intricacies of fight-or-flight and rest-and-digest responses. I'll delve into the differences between hyper and hypo nervous systems, and navigate just a little of what we know about this essential human system
The episode goes beyond the surface, dissecting the impact of chronic stress and trauma on the nervous system, leading to states of perpetual fight-or-flight or immobilization. Let's shed some light on why individuals may find themselves stuck in these states even when there's no immediate threat. The episode  introduces the Polyvagal Theory,  framework that offers insights into the interplay of the vagus nerve in shaping our social engagement and stress responses.
I will also share practical strategies for healing hyper and hypoactive nervous systems, attention is also given to the often overlooked under-stimulated nervous system. With a focus on fawning and freezing responses, the episode illuminates the science behind these states and gently explores ways to activate and revitalize a dormant nervous system. With a blend of scientific knowledge and compassionate guidance, this episode empowers listeners to embark on a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and nervous system restoration. Understanding your nervous system can help all of us gain more compassion towards ourselves by understanding that it is an evolutionary biological response and not a "personality flaw" that is behind many of our actions when our nervous system is dysregulated
contact me: 
email: wendy@messagesfromthemiddle.com
instagram:@childsongbird
 
 
 

Tell Your story

In this episode of "Messages from the Middle," I shine the spotlight on the profound impact of storytelling on mental health. In the middle of life's challenges, our narratives become powerful tool of resilience and connection. This episode explores the art of sharing personal stories as a beacon of hope and strength for both the storyteller and those navigating similar paths.
🌟 Discover the cathartic and empowering experience of crafting your narrative and the therapeutic benefits it offers. From overcoming adversity to navigating mental health challenges, learn how sharing personal stories becomes a message of resilience, compassion, and growth. I'll guides you through practical tips on articulating your experiences offering a roadmap to transform your struggles into sources of inspiration.
🌈 I wan to encourage you to use your story to inspire others in the middle of their struggles to find strength, hope, and connection. Tune in and let the transformative power of storytelling uplift your mind and spirit.
 
contact me:
email: wendy@messagesfromthemiddle.com
instagram: @childsongbird
 

Let 2024 be 2024: Using Grit and grace as you navigate the new year

This week on Messages from the Middle, I share feelings about going into a new year, using grit and grace on those New Years resolutions or any transformative journey. I believe that with a combination of unwavering determination and a touch of self-compassion, you can conquer your goals and defy expectations while nurturing self-love and personal growth. 
In this episode I also provide the framework that I am using to set goals and work towards creating the year that I am working toward while giving myself the best head-start to allowing 2024 to be the year it is meant to be. 
Are you ready for this year? Let me offer you a few ways you can start the year with motivation and a lot of compassion and self-love. I've got big plans for this year. Let's see what we can do together and how we can become the best most loving version of ourselves! 
Let July Be July- Morgan Harper Nichols
contact me: email: wendy@messagesfromthemiddle.com
instagram: @childsongbird